With the number of mass shootings across America increasing each year, there is a growing focus on integrated response, placing paramedics and EMTs side-by-side with law enforcement when called to scenes of violence. As tactical medical response evolves to meet these growing needs, so does our medical equipment. But the restrictions that go along with tactical scenarios—namely, take only what you can carry—mean that each piece of equipment must be fundamental to the mission. There is no room for excess. Let's explore five things to include in your tactical trauma kit.

1. Personal Protection

Since you're of no use to the patient if you become injured on the scene, your priority must be protecting yourself. Your tactical gear (body armor, helmet, and clothing) can help protect you from bullets and shrapnel, but you must also consider the normal hazards of patient contact. Victims on the scene will most likely be suffering from traumatic injuries, such as gunshot wounds, which means you must protect yourself from blood and other bodily fluids during treatment.

Your tactical trauma kit should include the basics of personal protective gear, including:

Gloves

Eye protection

Face shields

Disposable gowns may not be practical in the tactical setting, but make sure your eyes, face, and hands are protected during patient contact.

2. Assessment Tools

Stethoscope (especially in the case of penetrating wounds to the chest)

BP cuff

Pulse oximeter

CO2 monitor

Keep these tools in a single pouch for easy access and to expedite your assessment.

3. Trauma Supplies

When you think tactical scenarios, think traumatic injuries. You're not going to be treating chronic conditions, such as COPD or asthma. Tactical medicine is aimed at life-threatening injuries associated with scenes of violence—in other words, trauma.

An assortment of bandages (gauze and Kling), along with specialized bandages for controlling hemorrhage (Israeli or H-bandage)

Tourniquets

Hemostat dressings

Chest seal bandages

Your goal is to stop the bleeding and stabilize the patient for removal, so be sure to include plenty of trauma supplies in case there are multiple patients.

4. Airway Equipment

Just like your assessment equipment, you'll have to streamline your airway gear. This includes:

Basic adjuncts, such as NPA and OPA

Pocket mask

Collapsible bag valve device

Chest decompression kits

Advanced airways (endotracheal or King tubes)

5. Suction for the Tactical Setting

Many tactical teams outfit their bags with a manual suction device that is activated by a hand pump. A better alternative is a battery-powered portable suction unit specifically designed for the tactical setting. A lightweight, high-powered unit, small enough to stow in your tactical bag, will be ideal for handling the blood and bodily fluids associated with traumatic injury. There is no replacement for suction, so ensure that you have a dependable, effective unit that can clear the airway, enable you to visualize the cords, and provide the power and endurance needed during a tactical emergency.

Outfitting your tactical trauma kit requires a focused approach to lifesaving equipment, and these five things will ensure your kit is ready. Your gear must be lightweight, portable, and most of all, effective—especially your portable suction unit.

AboutSam D. Say

Sam D. Say is owner and CEO of SSCOR, Inc., a medical device manufacturer specializing in emergency battery operated portable suction devices for the hospital and pre-hospital settings. Mr. Say has been involved in developing product for healthcare providers for over 35 years. His passions include contributing to the management of the patient airway and providing solutions that save lives in difficult conditions.

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